Three earthworks on the heights along the Appomattox River give Fort Clifton an unusually tangible historical character: the remains of the batteries still stand today. The fort was a Confederate fortification and, in 1864 and 1865, an important link in the defensive line of Richmond and Petersburg. Those interested in Civil War history will find more than just a name here—they will encounter a visible trace of the defensive works of that era that remains to this day.
Fort Clifton and its history
The three surviving earthworks help explain the fort’s military function, without reducing its history to dates and battle names. The Appomattox River is part of the recorded setting; the elevated position of the batteries is part of the description of this fortification. The Fort Clifton Trail is an easy out-and-back route 0.5 miles long. Its stated length and difficulty rating provide a concrete guide if you would like to include a shorter route in your plans; trail details may change.
The Fort Clifton Festival takes place annually on Mother’s Day weekend, although the exact date varies from year to year. Food vendors are part of the festival; offerings may also vary each year. If you plan to attend, check the dates for the year in question. This lets you time your visit to coincide with a special occasion without assuming a particular program.
Homes, mills, and traces of the past
The Old Brick House is considered likely to be the oldest brick house in the region and one of the oldest houses in Virginia. Free interior tours are available by appointment. The appointment is essential: if you would like to see inside the house, plan to contact them before your visit.
Violet Bank also connects a specific historical chapter with a current visitor restriction. The house served as General Robert E. Lee’s headquarters from June 8 to November 1, 1864. The Violet Bank Museum and its grounds have been temporarily closed to the public since June 6, 2026, for exterior renovation and preservation work. Check the official reopening announcement before visiting.
Swift Creek Mill is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and registered as a Virginia Historic Landmark. It housed a mill believed to have been America’s oldest gristmill. This qualified description is part of its distinctive historical legacy. Another way to connect with the past is at Conjurer’s Field, where artifacts from the prehistoric Middle Woodland and Late Woodland periods have been recovered. These finds point to a much earlier period than the surviving Civil War fortifications and historic homes.
Exhibits and sports history
The Keystone Truck & Tractor Museum covers 130,000 square feet and offers a different focus: its collection includes restored antique farm tractors, farm equipment, antique trucks, classic cars, and antique radios. Those interested in the history of machinery and vehicles can explore several areas here rather than focusing on a single collection category. The museum is in central Colonial Heights and is easily accessible from Interstate 95.
Shepherd Stadium offers another facet of sports history. Built in the 1940s, it has hosted professional games and championship events. Cosmic Baseball adds an after-dark game and event experience to this story: UV-reactive jerseys, bats, and bases are illuminated by stadium-wide blacklights. The experience was introduced in 2024. If you plan to attend Cosmic Baseball, check Shepherd Stadium’s current schedule.
River trails and natural sites
The river and park options also offer different experiences. The Colonial Heights Appomattox River Trail System has trails for hiking and cycling, along with fishing areas, a small boat ramp at Roslyn Landing Park, and a canoe launch. Roslyn Landing Park also has a fishing pier. Appomatuck Park offers designated fishing areas and access to a trailhead. Park and trail facilities may change; check current information before visiting.
Lakeview Park is located on Swift Creek Lake. This is a different kind of connection to place than the trails and fishing areas: its lakeside setting is its defining feature. Another distinctive natural feature is the Cucumber Tree. It is said to have been planted in 1718 and is considered one of the largest known specimens of Magnolia acuminata east of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The qualified dating and geographically limited comparison make the tree a destination in its own right for anyone looking to discover Colonial Heights’ natural history as well as its homes and fortifications.
Discover more destinations: Colonial Heights, Dinwiddie County, Northampton County, Fairfax City, Wise County, Northumberland County, Goochland, Patrick County.
For the main travel overview: Virginia.
